HOW PUMPS, THE MOST LOVED WOMEN’S SHOE STYLE OF ALL TIME, CAME ABOUT

Due to the technological innovations of previous years, there was a wide range of footwear available to both men and women at the beginning of the 20th century. Pointy-toed lace-up boots were one of the most popular shoe styles for women – they were worn tightly as narrow feet were all the rage at the time. Women especially favored these dressy boots as skirt lengths began to creep up slightly and shoes became visible.

Wealthy women wore silk stockings in dark colors and, when not in fancy boots, they sported handmade pumps – these were shoes with moderate heels of about two or three inches. Pumps, easily the most popular women’s shoe of the era, were usually made of leather with an upper that covered the toes leaving the top of the foot bare. Silk and other fine materials were used to make evening pumps and buckles, bows, and embellishments were added to finish off the look. Pumps continue to be a staple in every woman’s wardrobe even after a century.

Author: Marina Sobe-Panek